Senate Passes Funding Bill, Averting Government Shutdown

The Senate passed a six-month spending bill on Friday, avoiding a government shutdown with a vote of 54-46, sending the measure to President Trump for his signature. The bill, primarily authored by House Republicans, includes a $6 billion increase for military funding while cutting non-defense programs by $13 billion. Despite significant Democratic opposition, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer ultimately supported the bill to prevent a shutdown, arguing that its consequences would be worse than passing the legislation. Many Democrats expressed frustration over the lack of input in the bill and concerns it would enable Trump to exert more control over federal spending. A number of Democrats also asserted that a shutdown would primarily reflect poorly on Republicans, who hold power in Congress. Ultimately, the bill reflects ongoing tensions within the party as they navigate their response to Trump's agenda and the implications for key federal programs.